The Matildas claimed the Australia Cup series against France tonight in the third and final match, winning 1-0 on the Gold Coast in a storm-interrupted game.
The narrow win capped an impressive undefeated run for the Australians over the highly-rated French, following last Thursday's 2-1 victory in Coffs Harbour, and a 1-1 draw in Lismore on Sunday.
The Matildas have now twice kept the Australia Cup on home soil after also winning the inaugural title in 1999 against Italy and Canada.
Severe lightning prompted referee Tammy Ogston to halt play after just 19 minutes, and the game was not restarted for another 47 minutes whilst the storm and hail passed over and the surface water subsided.
"The lightning strike was almost directly over the back of them - far too close for safety," explained National Coordinator of Women Referees Jennifer Bray.
The break seemed to do France no harm, looking dangerous on the attack with several good chances once the game finally resumed, in the knowledge they needed to win by two goals. Striker Angelique Roujas came closest in the 32nd minute, her drive from the right striking the bottom of the far post.
The Matildas came out more positive in the second half and claimed the lead seven minutes in. An inviting low square cross from Sharon Black on the right was met first-time by Matildas newcomer April Mann whose volley from 10 metres spun high over the keeper and into goal. Mann, who made her debut in Coffs Harbour last week, celebrated her first international goal.
But France, missing midfielder Sandrine Soubeyrand (suspended) and Gaelle Blouin (illness), faded markedly after conceding the goal, allowing Australia, who needed only a draw, to hold control of proceedings.
The physical nature of the clash grew as time wore on, a total of seven yellow cards dealt out by referee Ogston.
The match became scrappy, France having lost their spark and the Australians seemingly happy to hang on to their lead. Matildas substitute Kelly Golebiowski set loose for the best remaining chance in the dying minutes for a one-on-one with the keeper, only to see her shot blocked.
The marathon encounter was finally ended, amidst Aussie cheers of celebration. The rain pelted down once again at the end of the clash, forcing a rushed trophy presentation.
"It was awesome," said Mann of scoring her first goal for Australia. "The game was pretty physical, and I got my first yellow card and my first goal in the same game."